Battle of Black Mingo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Black Mingo |
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| Part of the American Revolutionary War | |||||||
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Patriot militia |
 Loyalist militia |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
| Francis Marion |
John Coming Ball |
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| Strength | |||||||
| 50+ | 50+ | ||||||
| Casualties and losses | |||||||
| 2 killed 8 wounded |
3 killed 13 wounded |
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The Battle of Black Mingo was a small but important fight during the American Revolutionary War. It happened in September 1780 in Georgetown County, South Carolina. This battle saw American Patriot forces, led by General Francis Marion, attack a group of British-supporting Loyalists. The Loyalists were trying to control the area after a British leader, Colonel Banastre Tarleton, had passed through.
Contents
What Led to the Battle of Black Mingo?
How Francis Marion Became a Leader
After a battle called Battle of Ramsour's Mill, a group of local fighters was put under the command of Brigadier General Francis Marion. He became known as the "Swamp Fox" because of his clever tactics. Marion and his men used guerrilla tactics, which means they used surprise attacks and quick raids. They did this to bother the British army and their American supporters, the Loyalists.
British Efforts to Stop Marion
The British won a big battle at Battle of Camden. After this victory, they sent out groups of soldiers to take control of the countryside. They also wanted to capture important American leaders like Francis Marion. These actions made many of Marion's men feel discouraged. Some even left his group. This forced Marion to hide in the swamps between North and South Carolina with only about 60 men left.
Why Did More People Join the Patriots?
The British soldiers then traveled across South Carolina. They took supplies and destroyed property belonging to people who supported the American Revolution. This made many Americans very angry. Because of this, Marion moved back into South Carolina. Many new fighters, upset by the British actions, joined his side.
Planning the Attack on the Loyalists
Marion soon learned that a large group of Loyalists was gathered at Shepherd's Ferry. This spot was on the south side of Black Mingo Creek, about 15 kilometers away. Reports said the Loyalists had more fighters than Marion did. However, his new recruits were very eager to fight. Their excitement convinced Marion to agree to an attack.
The Battle of Black Mingo
The Plan for a Surprise Attack
General Marion wanted to surprise the Loyalists by attacking them early in the morning. But the surprise was ruined just before midnight. The horses at the front of his group started crossing a wooden bridge over Black Mingo Creek. This bridge was about 1 kilometer downstream from the Loyalist camp.
When the Fighting Began
The Loyalists heard alarm shots from their camp. Marion's soldiers quickly rushed forward to fight. Marion divided his small force into three groups. He sent one group down the main road and the other two to the right and left. This surrounded the Loyalist troops. The Loyalists had formed up in an old field next to Dollard's Tavern.
Who Won the Battle?
Even though the Loyalists had more soldiers, they were caught between two lines of fire. They gave up after only a few shots and ran into the swamp. The actual fighting lasted only about 15 minutes. Less than 100 men fought in total. Marion's side lost two men, including Captain George Logan, and had eight wounded. The Loyalists lost three men and had 13 wounded or captured.
What Happened After the Battle?
Marion's Growing Reputation
News of Marion's success at Black Mingo spread quickly. This victory helped him recruit even more soldiers after the battle. He became an even more respected leader.
A Lesson Learned for Future Battles
Marion also learned an important lesson from this fight. He reportedly never again crossed a bridge when planning a surprise attack without first laying blankets down on it. This was to muffle the sound of his horses and keep his plans secret.
